Charles Wear (Veteran)

Charles W. Wear, age 91, Jefferson City, passed away, Saturday, November 13, 2010, at his home. He died peacefully in the arms of his loving wife Mary who never left his side. He was born in Springfield, Missouri to Sam and Susan Wear on October 4, 1919. Charlie attended Greenwood Elementary, graduated from Oklahoma Military Academy, and attended Drury College where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity before enlisting in the Army. After returning from WWII, Charlie began his career in sales, finance and banking and continued there until his retirement. He was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. Charlie was devoted to volunteer projects within his parish, and he always found ways for his children to participate as well. He was dedicated to the Boy Scouts of America, and maintained his commitment and involvement with scouting long after his two sons grew up. Charlie loved all sports, enjoyed playing golf, was an accomplished horseman, and relished the time he spent coaching his son's baseball and basketball teams throughout grade school and junior high. He loved a good joke, and his infectious smile and laugh brought joy to many. Charlie will be remembered as a kind and generous man that never met a stranger. He had a big heart, was never too busy to lend a helping hand, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was very proud of his Cherokee Indian heritage. His great-grandfather was Reverend Stephan Foreman who led one of the five wagon trains at the removal of the Cherokees, known as "The Trail of Tears" in 1838. Reverend Foreman organized the Cherokee National Public School system, was the first Superintendent of Education west of the Mississippi River, a delegate to Washington, and Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Cherokee Nation. He was also given credit for translating the Bible and numerous other important works into the Cherokee language. Survivors include his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Eileen; his children, Charlie Jr., Deborah Brunk, Mary "Libby" Frates, Gene, and numerous grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters, Hunter Wear, Sam Burke Wear, William Wear, Mary Ann Wear, and Susan Mills. Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Agnes Cathedral, 533 South Jefferson Avenue, Springield, MO on Friday, November 19, at 1:30 p.m. Interment will follow in Springfield Missouri Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Boy Scouts of America chapter of your choice, or the Recovery Fellowship Ministries, 2362 S. Luster, Springfield, MO 65804. Online condolences may be left at gormanscharpf.com.